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Discovering the Time Capsule: Huishan Old Town in Wuxi, China
China's futuristic bullet trns zip through its outskirts at breakneck speeds of up to 350kmh. The once quiet residential blocks and modern commercial zones sprout like wildflowers on the landscape. As they approach the bustling metropolis, a handful of towering skyscrapers, some exceeding 300m in height, mark the skyline, exting the city's downtown area.
With a population of over six million, Wuxi is relatively small by Chinese standards. However, it has long been a hub for industry, trade and culture due to its strategic location on both sides of the Grand Canal-a significant waterway built in the sixth century. The city now stands at the forefront of China's burgeoning solar technology industry and sits along an active high-speed rl corridor connecting Nanjing, provincial capital, with Shangh.
But amidst this modern vibrancy, Wuxi is also home to one of its most captivating ancient treasures-Huishan Old Town. This historic quarter is just a 10-minute taxi ride west of the urban heart, offering visitors a journey back in time to explore a living museum of Wuxi's heritage.
Surrounded by majestic mountns and nestled along Huishan Canal, which merges into the Grand Canal, this charming district unfolds like an intricate tapestry of centuries-old culture. The town is accessible via the entrance fee that covers all sites at RMB70.
A Walk Through History
The focal point of Huishan Old Town is its arched pavilion entrance adorned with vibrant red and gold hues. Cobblestone lanes, lined with whitewashed traditional houses and ancestral halls, radiate outwards from this central square like ripples in a pond.
Step through the wooden gates to discover what lies beyond. Each door opens onto surprises wting for those who dare to explore. A stroll down these ancient pathways reveals hidden gems such as Xian Feng Bookstore-a qunt bookstore that doubles up as a coffee shop, offering visitors an escape into its sun-dappled courtyard.
A world away from the modern hustle, Lao C Guan serves traditional Wuxi cuisine in a heritage building with intricately carved windows. The restaurant's specialties include brsed spareribs in rice wine and soy sauce, seasoned with ginger, anise, cloves, black peppercorns-the quintessential flavors of Wuxi's sweetly seasoned dishes.
For those interested in local crafts, Huishan Old Town is a treasure trove of artisan studios where skilled craftsmen sell beautifully pnted clay figurines. And if you're lucky enough to visit during the evening hours, you might catch one of the cozy bars along Huishan Canal, where locals and travelers alike gather for drinks under twinkling lanterns.
Savoring Wuxi's Timeless Legacy
As night falls over Huishan Old Town, its traditional charm comes alive with a magical aura. The scent of incense mixed with the soothing chants of monks at Huishan Temple creates an atmosphere that's both meditative and enchanting. Located just steps away from the entrance, this ancient temple dates back to more than 1,500 years ago.
Incorporated into its walls are inscriptions left by emperors, poets, and tea aficionados who visited this renowned spring water believed to be second only to Mount Lu in Jiangxi province. The Huishan Temple is not just a historical site; it's a testament to Wuxi's rich cultural heritage.
Venturing further into the heart of the old town, you'll uncover a hidden world within its walls that seems frozen in time. This place allows you to step back centuries and experience life as it was once lived by ancient Chinese communities.
The Visit Huishan Old Town Experience
Huishan Old Town is more than just an attraction-it's an immersive journey into China's past, where each corner tells a story of heritage, tradition, and craftsmanship. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life, this time capsule offers something for everyone.
For those seeking to bring a piece of Huishan Old Town home with them, Lao C Guan's house-made Huiquan yellow wine is the perfect souvenir. Crafted using traditional methods involving Huishan spring water, local glutinous rice, and aged in glazed pottery jars, this sweet liquor was once a favorite among China's aristocracy.
Explore Huishan Old Town today and embark on a journey through time where you'll discover treasures hidden within its walls-memories of the past that still the present.
Huishan Old Town
Located west of Wuxi city, this historic town is approximately 10 to 15 minutes away by taxi from Wuxi Rlway Station or about 20 minutes from Grand Park Wuxi. The entrance fee grants access to all sites within the old town for a price of RMB70.
Contact Information:
Xian Feng Bookstore
9 Xiuzhang Street
Tel: +86 510 8370 2691
A cozy bookstore coupled with a coffee shop tucked away in an ancient residence, offering serene moments under the sun-dappled courtyard.
Lao C Guan
Tel: +86 510 8358 1177
This popular restaurant serves traditional Wuxi cuisine and homemade local Huiquan yellow wine, featuring intricate carvings on windows and private rooms overlooking a inner courtyard.
Photo Credits: BRAD WESTPHAL
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